Thanksgiving always takes me back to those busy days when I craved a side that felt like home but was quick enough to make after work. I found this Apple Cranberry Stuffing to be exactly that—easy, comforting, and packed with flavors that remind me of fall celebrations. This recipe takes about an hour total and blends sweet and savory in a way that’s simple and satisfying.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
- Perfectly balanced sweet and savory flavors with tart cranberries and sweet Braeburn apples.
- Simple ingredients that come together without fuss or complicated steps.
- Make-ahead friendly, so you can prep in advance and enjoy stress-free gatherings.
- Uses bread cubes dried to crispness for a stuffing that’s moist but never soggy, with herbs that add warmth and depth.
Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Stuffing
- 10 cups (16 oz) hearty white sandwich bread cubes* ((about 1/2-inch cubes)) – the base for a soft yet firm stuffing texture.
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, (diced into 1 tbsp pieces) – adds moisture and richness.
- 2 cups diced celery – for crunch and fresh flavor.
- 1 1/3 cups chopped yellow onion – delivers sweet savory depth.
- Salt – to enhance all flavors with balance.
- 2 large Braeburn apples ((1 lb), cored and chopped) – adds natural sweetness and slight tartness.
- 1 cup dried cranberries – brings a burst of fruity tartness.
- 4 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, (divided) – freshness and color.
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh rosemary – earthy, piney aroma.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme – adds herbal warmth.
- 1/2 tsp dried sage – classic stuffing herb for savory balance.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, (as needed) – moistens the bread without overpowering.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Stuffing: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Transfer bread cubes to two rimmed baking sheets and spread into an even layer.
- Place both sheets on two opposite oven racks near center and dry through, tossing the bread cubes and rotating sheets halfway, about 30 minutes total.
- Remove from oven and set aside. Increase oven temperature to 325 degrees.
- Melt vegetable shortening in a large skillet over medium heat. Add celery and onion, season lightly with salt and sauté until softened, about 10 – 13 minutes.
- Add apples and sauté until they start to break down and soften slightly, about 3 – 4 minutes. Remove from heat, toss in cranberries, 3 Tbsp parsley, rosemary, thyme, and sage.
- Pour dried bread cubes into an extra large mixing bowl. Add apple mixture, season lightly with salt to taste, then evenly pour in 1 cup chicken broth and gently toss.
- Slowly add more broth as needed, tossing gently until bread is just about soaked through.
- Spray a 13 by 8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour bread mixture in and spread into an even layer.
- Cover with foil and bake 15 minutes. Uncover and bake until heated through and top is golden brown, 15 – 25 minutes longer. Serve warm sprinkled with remaining 1 Tbsp parsley.
Choosing the Best Bread for Apple Cranberry Stuffing
Hearty white sandwich bread cubes work beautifully because they absorb flavors well without turning mushy. For gluten-free options, use a sturdy gluten-free white or multigrain bread that can stand up to the broth. Drying the bread is crucial; it prevents sogginess and helps create a crispy exterior after baking. Oven drying at 300 degrees, like in this recipe, is faster and provides even drying compared to air drying, which takes days. Different bread types provide varied textures and tastes—from chewy sourdough for tang to rustic whole wheat for nuttiness—so the choice shapes your final stuffing’s personality.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Cranberry Stuffing
Keep the stuffing moist but not wet by adding broth gradually—stop when the bread is nearly soaked. Don’t skip drying the bread cubes; it’s key to that ideal texture. Season carefully and taste the mixture before baking to adjust salt and herbs. Cover with foil at first to trap moisture, then uncover for a golden, crispy top. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause uneven cooking.
Make-Ahead Instructions for Stress-Free Holidays
You can prepare the stuffing mixture up to 24 hours in advance. After assembling, cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a splash more broth if it looks dry, then follow the baking steps from the recipe. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked mixture in a sealed container up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This method keeps flavors fresh and textures perfect for your stress-free holiday meal.
Apple Cranberry Stuffing Variations and Flavor Enhancements
| Variation | Ingredient Adjustments | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nutty Crunch | Add 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts | Adds crunch and a toasty, rich note |
| Spiced Warmth | Add 1/4 tsp cinnamon and 1/4 tsp nutmeg | Infuses cozy fall spices |
| Herbaceous Boost | Add 1 Tbsp chopped fresh thyme and a handful of sage leaves | Elevates herbal aroma and depth |
| Boozy Twist | Substitute 1/2 cup chicken broth with apple cider or Marsala wine | Adds a subtle sweet acidity or rich complexity |
Feel free to mix and match these flavors to find your favorite twist.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Cranberry Stuffing
This stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey but also complements baked chicken, glazed ham, or pork loin. For another festive dish featuring cranberries, consider making slow cooker cranberry meatballs. Round out your meal with sides like garlic green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or mashed sweet potatoes for a colorful, balanced plate. For dessert, something light like an apple crisp or pumpkin spice roll cake fits the fall theme perfectly.
How to Store and Reheat Apple Cranberry Stuffing
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, cover the stuffing with foil and warm in a 325-degree oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For crispier top, uncover during the last 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Nutritional Information for Apple Cranberry Stuffing
Estimates per serving (based on 8 servings): Calories: 230 kcal Fat: 10 g Carbohydrates: 30 g Protein: 4 g Sodium: 350 mg
The Ultimate Easy Apple Cranberry Stuffing Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Transfer bread cubes to two rimmed baking sheets and spread into an even layer.
- Place both sheets on two opposite oven racks near center and dry through, tossing the bread cubes and rotating sheets halfway, about 30 minutes total.
- Remove from oven and set aside. Increase oven temperature to 325 degrees.
- Melt vegetable shortening in a large skillet over medium heat. Add celery and onion, season lightly with salt and sauté until softened, about 10 – 13 minutes.
- Add apples and sauté until they start to break down and soften slightly, about 3 – 4 minutes. Remove from heat, toss in cranberries, 3 Tbsp parsley, rosemary, thyme, and sage.
- Pour dried bread cubes into an extra large mixing bowl. Add apple mixture, season lightly with salt to taste, then evenly pour in 1 cup chicken broth and gently toss.
- Slowly add more broth as needed, tossing gently until bread is just about soaked through.
- Spray a 13 by 8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour bread mixture in and spread into an even layer.
- Cover with foil and bake 15 minutes. Uncover and bake until heated through and top is golden brown, 15 – 25 minutes longer. Serve warm sprinkled with remaining 1 Tbsp parsley.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent my stuffing from becoming soggy?
Dry your bread cubes thoroughly and add broth gradually, just enough to moisten.
How long can I store leftover apple cranberry stuffing, and what’s the best way to reheat it?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat covered in the oven for best results.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? What substitutions should I use?
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and a plant-based shortening to keep it vegetarian or vegan.
What are some creative ways to use leftover apple cranberry stuffing?
Stuff it inside bell peppers or zucchini for a tasty baked dish or mix into meatballs for a fall twist.
What other fruits or nuts could I add to this recipe for different flavor profiles?
Try dried cherries, toasted pecans, or even chopped figs for variety.
Is it better to bake the stuffing inside or outside the turkey? What are the pros and cons of each method?
Baking outside is safer for consistent cooking and easy texture control; inside adds richness but requires careful timing to avoid undercooked stuffing.
How do I know when my stuffing is fully cooked? What internal temperature should I aim for?
Stuffing is done when it’s hot throughout and has a golden top; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing recipe has become one of my go-tos when I want comfort without complicated steps. Its balance of sweet apples, tart cranberries, and savory herbs makes it a crowd-pleaser. I hope you give it a try and let me know what variations you loved or what you served it with. Cooking doesn’t have to be hard—let’s keep it simple, flavorful, and full of heart together.
